Instruction in the New Normal

Chad OstrowskiBlog, Differentiate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: To prepare for any scenario, materials, lessons, and activities should be accessible to students anywhere and anytime. Teachers should create non-time dependent instructional plans that flow from one learning environment to another. Utilizing mastery and standards based grading to focus on targeted objectives provide a pathway to success. Things Are Different Now. No matter how you look at education … Read More

Choice + Voice: Powerhouse Combo in the Classroom

Lindsay TitusBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Grade Better, Lead Better, Lesson Plan Better, Mastery Done Better

TL;DR: Choice and voice are essential in order to engage students. Student choice is directly related to the concept of autonomy. Student voice is often communicated through their choices and behaviors. It might be the teacher in me, but when words rhyme or have a strong sense of alliteration, I’m all for it! Two of my favorites? CHOICE + VOICE, … Read More

The Teacher’s Role in the Grid Method

Teach Better TeamBlog, Differentiate Better, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Mastery Done Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: One teacher’s experience using the grid method. A focused look at the role of the teacher in the grid method. “So you don’t really teach anymore.”  “The students teach themselves.” “When will I get to see you teach?”  In implementing the grid method, I’ve heard them all and I’ve heard them a lot.  So what is teaching and what … Read More

How Creative Are You? Can You Create Better?

Debbie TannenbaumBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better, Manage Better, Personalize Student Learning Better

TL;DR: A reflection from Adobe Creative Educator Day. Lessons on improving creativity for yourself AND your students. At the end of February, I got the opportunity to attend the Adobe Creative Educator Day. I  thought I understood creativity before that day, but it turned out that I only understood a small aspect of it. This was an entire day dedicated to … Read More

Promoting Student Engagement and Collaboration using Breakouts

Teach Better TeamBlog, Engage Better, Innovate Better, Lesson Plan Better

TL;DR: An introduction the many ways breakouts can be used in your classroom. A “how to” for planning and implementing a breakout in your classroom. As a middle school teacher, I’m always looking for fun new ways to engage my students.  Their current favorite? Breakouts!  Planning a breakout can seem overwhelming, time consuming, and daunting.  I’m here to help walk … Read More